Luis García enjoyed remarkable contributions on the pitch and a seamless transition into life after retirement.
We spoke to him to delve into his journey through the game, his thoughts on international football, and his continued passion for the sport as he navigates new roles off the pitch.
We’ve recently enjoyed another Champions League after a busy football season. Talk to us about your experience playing in the Champions League.
Champions League is the competition every kid wants to play, a dream I had when I was very young. The first time I walked out onto the pitch and heard the anthem was really emotional. The atmosphere at the stadium on a Champions League night is something special, difficult to beat.
Do you have a standout memory in the tournament?
Lots of memories come to mind, most of them amazing ones. Probably a really incredible night was back in the 2005 semifinal at Anfield against Chelsea. One of the best atmospheres I have ever seen in a stadium.
You were recently involved in a Champions League festival in London too, where you played a legends match. Can you tell me us bit about that?
We are very lucky that after retirement, UEFA invites us to enjoy the Champions League finals and all the activities around them. It’s a chance to share our experiences as players with supporters and give back some of the love we received during our careers. Having the chance to kick the ball around with former teammates and rivals, and remembering the good old days, is truly special.
The European Championships have began in Germany. Explain how you felt when you got to represent your country on the international stage.
Playing for your national team is probably the peak of every player’s career. The whole country is looking to those players and expecting them to deliver the trophy. It’s a beautiful feeling to represent Spain, but a big responsibility too. Playing in a major tournament like the Euros or a World Cup is something you’ll never forget.
You spent a few years playing for Liverpool. How does it feel to see a legend like Jurgen Klopp leave the club? Are you excited for the future?
Jurgen has been a very special manager, not only because he delivered trophies and exceptional football but also because of his connection with the supporters, the club, and the city. He’ll always be remembered for his legacy on the field but also for his celebrations with The Kop, his community work, and his respectful way of communicating. The future is uncertain; a new fresh air was needed, and I think Arne Slot can bring that new energy to the players. It won’t be easy; the comparison will always be there, but starting the competition well will be key for a successful season.
Why did you decide to complete the MIP Alumni course?
When I finished my football career, I knew what I wanted to do. I worked for TV for a while and started my coaching badges. I received an offer to be part of the board at a club but felt unprepared and wanted to do something to learn more about the football industry, off the field.
What skills did you learn?
I learned many new skills and also realized that I had a lot of those that I could exploit in a very competitive environment. Presentation, routines, discipline, and structure were great inputs I gained during those two years.
Do you have any career ambitions off the pitch now that your playing career has ended?
I’m a very active person, and I like to be busy. I’m involved as an ambassador for UEFA, Liverpool, Barça, and LaLiga, traveling a lot to share the values of the sport and inspire new generations. I work for ESPN and CBS covering LaLiga and the Champions League. There’s not much time left with four kids and a wife at home to balance work and family time, but I’m always looking for other challenges and open to learning more along the way.
Would you recommend the course to others?
I’ve recommended the course to many other players who were looking for a specific role in the football business but also to those who were unsure about what to do next. MIP gives you an idea of all the jobs and opportunities there are around football once you are off the field.
How important is it for ex-professionals to be involved in the game of football?
It all depends on what you want for the next chapter in your life. We retire very young, and even after having a long break post-retirement, you need to find something to do, something you enjoy that keeps you busy. You just need to go out there and try, then decide what brings you joy and keeps your mind active.
Follow the MIP Alumni Association on Twitter
